A MELO DECEMBER? : SYLMAR AT TAFT 7 P.M., AT TAFT HIGH.

Byline: Vincent Bonsignore Daily News Staff Writer

While waiting for his controversial transfer from Van Nuys High to Taft last summer, David Melo stayed focused by thinking about December.

During the worst of times, when former coaches questioned his integrity and made nasty accusations of illegal recruiting, Melo just envisioned playing in football games that meant something at the end of the year.

``Come to a big school and you play in big games,'' Melo said.

The standout linebacker was eventually vindicated when the City Section cleared his transfer and exonerated Taft of any wrong doing.

And tonight, Melo gets his wish to play in a meaningful game when the Toreadors (11-0) host Sylmar in a 4-A division semifinal game.

``It's like Holyfield-Tyson,'' Melo said. ``They both wanted the championship, but it came down to the last guy standing at the end.''

In many ways, Sylmar (11-1) and Taft are mirror images of one another. Both are led by emotional coaches who extract every ounce of effort and talent from their players.

Neither is immune to controversy, either. Over the years, the two schools have been reprimanded by the City Section for penalties ranging from unauthorized practices to illegal contact with potential transfers.

On the field, the Toreadors and Spartans are disciplined, athletic and talented.

``They do everything well,'' Sylmar coach Jeff Engilman said of the Toreadors.

Melo has the same respect for the Spartans, saying, ``They have key players all over the field.''

Taft is seeking its second consecutive visit to the 4-A championship game. Last year the Toreadors lost to San Pedro in final.

Sylmar won the title in 1992 and 1994 but was bounced from the postseason in the second round 1995 and first round last year.

The Spartans this year beat Canoga Park in the opening round and Franklin in the quarterfinals to get to this point. Taft beat San Fernando and Palisades.

Sylmar's strength is a diverse offense, which averages 388 yards per game, and a stingy defense that allows only 7.3 points, the fewest of any school in the area.

Offensively, running back Errol Bowen (1,058 yards, 16 touchdowns) is the top running threat, but all-purpose slot back Shaun Avalos is a factor running the ball and catching it.

Avalos is also one of the best defensive backs in the area. In the opening round against Canoga Park he had three interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. Defensive lineman Ray Solis is one of the top run stoppers in the area.

``He's the type of player you have to account for on every play,'' Taft coach Troy Starr said.

Taft's offense is led by running backs Marquis Brignac, who has 1,259 yards and Cedric Hurns (528 yards).

Quarterback Steve Alvarado has thrown for 1,764 yards.

Melo, Hurns and Tyler Brennan are featured on an athletic defense.

CAPTION(S):

Photo, Box

Photo: (Color) Tyler Brennan, left, and Van Nuys transfer David Melo of Taft face Sylmar in tonight's 4-A semifinals in a clash of the Valley's top City teams.

Gus Ruelas/Daily News

Box: City 4-A